Sidalcea virgata aka Sidalcea malviflora ssp. virgata
Rose Checkermallow is an uncommon native, its range limited to the Willamette Valley and a tiny part of SW Washington (where it is listed as endangered). The loose, large, bright pink blooms are a high-quality nectar source for the endangered Fender’s blue butterfly and a host plant for many native butterflies, such as the painted lady.
- Plant type/canopy layer: deciduous, perennial, herbaceous plant
- Size at maturity: 36”- 48” tall, 24”-36” wide
- Light requirements: full sun to part shade
- Moisture requirements: moist to dry soil
- Growth rate/ease: easy to grow, reseeds easily
- Bloom time: April to May
- Wildlife support: high-quality nectar source for the endangered Fender’s blue butterfly and a host plant for many native butterflies, such as the painted lady.
- Native range: Willamette Valley and a tiny part of SW Washington (where it is listed as endangered). Portland Plant List – no.
- Special features & uses: drought tolerant, beneficial insect and pollinator favorite, butterfly gardens
Gardening with Rose Checkermallow: Hardy, drought tolerant and easy to grow - an excellent addition for sunny wildflower meadows and butterfly gardens.
Seed Packet Contains: approximately 80 seeds
Seeding Instructions
Direct sowing: fall sowing is recommended as this species usually has a fair amount of seed dormancy. Seeds usually need 45-90 days of cold moist chilling before seeds will germinate in spring.
Growing transplants: Sow seeds in containers and place outside or in a cold frame. Seeds may germinate over a long period of time.
Photo credit: Steele Acres Native Seed